Sinisa Mihic: How the once-embattled Gor Mahia tactician has turned the tide ahead of Mashemeji Derby

Gor Mahia coach Sinisa Mihic is a man who has had a change in fortunes into his tenure.

The K’Ogalo boss endured a tumultuous start-to-life with the FKF Premier League Champions.

Mihic's credentials were questioned before he even took charge of his first match which ended in 2-1 win over Mathare United on February 8.

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After that he went on a run of two successive draws to title rivals Tusker and Bidco United that threatened his standing with the K’Ogalo faithful.

With their next fixture at the time being the Mashemeji Derby originally scheduled for March 2, 2025, Mihic was under pressure to deliver.

With a misfiring side, Mihic was critical of his charges unleashing a scathing criticism.

“To be honest, we don’t have the quality. We need new players upfront,” Mihic fumed as they were held to draw by Bidco at the Machakos stadium.

“If you put players on from the bench, they must bring something if they are professionals. Not just walking around like that. We had players who came on and added absolutely nothing to the team."

Fast forward and he has won every single match since then including two victories in the FKF Cup over KSG Ogopa and Githurai Allstars.

The upturn in fortune, spurred particularly by the return of midfielder Austin Odhiambo that has seen them spring back into title contention.

Currently in the thick of the heat Gor Mahia (42) in third trail leaders Kenya Police (45) and second-placed Tusker ((44).

Now heading into Sunday’s fixture, Mihic and his charges are upbeat about the clash and their title ambitions.

"Our atmosphere and energy levels are good this week. In derbies, the team that stays calm and controls their emotions usually wins. So, it's about the mind first, then the heart, and the tactics for this special game against our opponent,” he said as previous reported by Pulse Sports.

A win against Leopards will keep them in title contention and claim bragging rights over their bitter rivals.